Antique Chinese Export Silver Filigree Purse – Qing Dynasty – 279g – Original Lining

Description

Antique Chinese Export Silver Filigree Purse – Qing Dynasty – 279g – Original Lining

🗓 Era: Late 19th Century (Qing Dynasty)
🌏 Origin: China – Export Silver
⚙️ Material: Solid Silver (Handmade Filigree)
⚖️ Weight: 279 grams (including chain & frame)
📏 Form: Evening purse / opera bag with original shoulder chain. Purse size is approximately 16cm x 16cm. Shoulder chain is approximately 18cm
🧵 Lining: Original silk lining (present, worn with age)
❤️ Detail: Original dangling silver charm fringe
🔗 Chain: Heavy original shoulder chain
🔒 Closure: Twin ball clasp

Condition:

Authentic antique condition throughout. The silver structure remains solid and fully intact, with no breaks to the filigree, charm fringe, frame, or chain. All hinges, clasp, and chain links remain fully functional with excellent mechanical integrity for its age.

The original silk lining is present but heavily worn and torn, with thinning, splits, and areas of loss consistent with natural use over well in excess of 100 years. The lining has not been removed or replaced, preserving full historical authenticity. This is honest antique wear and exactly what is expected for a late 19th-century piece with such fine original fabric.

No modern restoration. No relining. No structural repairs.

Description:

A genuine late 19th-century Chinese export silver filigree purse, hand-built during the Qing Dynasty period for the Western market. This is a high-grade example featuring:

• Dense hand-twisted filigree panels

• Floral repoussé silver frame

• Twin ball clasp

• Heavy original chain

• Full charm fringe with symbolic love and fortune motifs

• Central prosperity / longevity symbol to the front

At 279 grams, this sits in the top weight tier for surviving examples. The differing front and reverse symbolism, uneven hand-finished detailing, and deep construction confirm true workshop silver, not modern reproduction or tourist silver.

These were luxury status objects made for evening wear and formal social occasions and are now highly sought after by:

• Collectors of Chinese export silver

• Asian antiques collectors

• Antique fashion & costume buyers

• Interior stylists & museum-grade collectors

This is a statement piece with serious presence.